The Tampa/St. Petersburg area might just be one of the best kept secrets in Florida. If you're looking for lots of cool things to do, gorgeous Gulf of Mexico beaches and the flavor of "old Florida," you've come to the right place! But don't expect a sleepy little coastal town — it's a booming city, complete with skyscrapers and traffic jams. However, if you're looking for a breather, you can relax on pristine beaches and barrier islands or take a hike into pine forests to listen to the hum of the natural world. Visit Busch Gardens, take in a ballgame, do a little shopping or dine at a fabulous restaurant. Local residents are proud of their city's generous offerings and activities.
You'll experience the diverse culture from the historic streets of Ybor City to the state-of-the-art Raymond James stadium. You can find all the amenities of a big city without ever being overwhelmed by being in one.
St. Petersburg is a smaller, more laid-back companion to her big sister and is a great place to find eclectic shops and restaurants, along with residents who can tell tales about the way the cities used to look. Enjoy the beach or take a stroll through a surreal museum. It's all the waterfront activity you'd expect, with accommodating residents who will guide you to the best cup of seafood gumbo or the coolest local event in town. These two cities are a lot alike, but just different enough for you to feel like you've taken two vacations instead of one. Maybe that's why so many visitors end up becoming residents and pass on what they've learned along the way.
